Interpreting and translating

You understand little German? At the doctor, at an office or at school, an interpreter can help. Here you find out how.

What is intercultural interpreting?

An interpreter translates the conversation. She knows both languages and both cultures. She has training and a duty of confidentiality (she is not allowed to pass anything on).

This is important at the doctor, at an office, at school or at a counselling centre.

Dolmetschdienst Zentralschweiz

Caritas runs the Dolmetschdienst Zentralschweiz (interpreting service for Central Switzerland). It works for the cantons Luzern, Nidwalden, Obwalden, Schwyz, Uri and Zug.

There are interpreters for over 40 languages. For example Arabic, Farsi, Tigrinya, Kurdish. Also by phone or video.

Important: You do not book the interpreter yourself. The hospital, the office or the counselling centre books her. Ask beforehand: "Can you book an interpreter?"

At the doctor

You must understand what the doctor says. Only then can you agree to a treatment. Tell the practice early which language you speak.

Ask for an interpreter. Many hospitals work with the interpreting service.

Friends or children as translators are often not a good solution. For health topics, a professional is better.

Translating documents

For offices you sometimes need a certified translation (beglaubigte Übersetzung). This is an official translation with a stamp. For example for diplomas, birth certificates or marriage certificates.

First ask the office: "Which translation exactly do you need?" Then look for a translation agency. This costs money, ask for the price beforehand.

What you can do now

  1. At every appointment, say early which language you speak.
  2. Ask: "Can you book an interpreter?"
  3. Do you need a document translated? Ask the office which form it needs.
  4. Unsure? FABIA or the Welcome Desk help you further.

Caritas Dolmetschdienst Zentralschweiz, Interkulturelles Dolmetschen (2026-09-21)

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